Sydney, 25 February, 2009 - In a continuing effort to support the Victorian Bushfire Appeal, AAPT is offering specific assistance to evacuated and homeless victims of the tragedy.

This support is in addition to the recent AAPT pledge of $50,000 to the Bendigo Bank online appeal.

Customers affected by the bushfires will be offered immediate financial relief, service provision and reconnection services. Those who have been evacuated and must deal with damaged infrastructure will receive activated free call diversion for 30 days, $50 credit for an AAPT fixed line service and $50 credit for one AAPT mobile service per household.

AAPT members who have been more dramatically affected by the fires will be granted additional assistance for both their Internet and phone services. DSL customers will receive free dial-up and a broadband upgrade within 12 months of the disaster (dependent on DSL availability).

For fixed line service, AAPT will retain customers’ lines and numbers for up to three months, and grant free reconnection within 12 months of the tragedy. Mobile phone users will also receive $100 credit per household or business for any AAPT mobile.

“We recognise our responsibility to do what is right by our customers, and provide them with continual assistance throughout this turbulent period,” said AAPT CEO, Paul Broad.

“More than ever, this is a time when Australians – both businesses and individuals – must bond together and aim to make a difference.”

AAPT encourages all individuals and organisations to make a donation to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal.